Protests against Southport magistrates’ court closure

PROTESTS have also been launched over plans to shut Southport’s 93-year old magistrates’ court.

Scores of residents and service users have written to HM Courts Service opposing its potential closure.

Cases would be transferred to Bootle – 19 miles away. Southport residents would face an hour bus journey or 35 minute train trip to see justice served.

Doris Pennington, who uses the courts on a daily basis, said: “I am totally disgusted that this ludicrous plan is even being considered.

”It will disenfranchise Southport residents and also some solicitors.”

HM Courts Service believe they can save around £160k per year, on top of £285k maintenance costs by closing the Albert Road court.

One former Southport court worker said: “If it does close, the cost element shifts to defendants, witnesses, solicitors, police, probation, magistrates and any staff who have to travel to Bootle. Only some of that group of court users can claim travel expenses.”